What does a Marine Surveyor do?

A marine surveyor is an individual that inspects boats, ships, and other water vessels. The job requires an evaluation of these vessels to ensure that federal and international boating requirements are met. In the case of a boating accident, the marine surveyor is often called upon by law enforcement to act as an investigator and piece together details of the accident. This individual is also frequently employed by insurance companies to examine the extent of damage to any vessel involved in an accident.

An individual who works as a marine surveyor must have great oral and written communication skills. He or she has to communicate with many individuals involved in a large survey project and is required to write a detailed report on the findings of the survey. This is a job where each survey situation is potentially unique. He or she must have enough boating expertise and experience to adapt to each new situation presented.

When a ship is being manufactured, a marine surveyor is brought in to monitor the development process. In addition, a yearly survey is often performed on each vessel. When a significant storm causes damage to a vessel, this individual is hired to detail the damage. A marine surveyor is also used to evaluate a vessel immediately before a sale. He or she can help buyers get top value on their purchases.

A marine surveyor must have good mathematics and measuring skills because he is often hired to measure vessels for the amount of weight they can sustain. This is a crucial ability, as a vessel carrying too much cargo weight can run into great problems on the water. On the other hand, if the vessel capacity is underestimated, then there will be a lot of wasted space that could have been used for cargo. A marine surveyor is commonly called upon for salvaging purposes as well. If significant damage has been done to a vessel, then this individual can determine which parts of the vessel can be saved and reused.

During an inspection, the hull is typically the first part examined to ensure the boat can be properly used on the water. Other parts of the vessel, including sea valves, rudders, and propellers, are also essential to examine. These important parts are usually evaluated in a methodical and painstaking fashion. The on-board machinery and electrical equipment is tested to measure vessel response and maintain utmost safety. The job of the marine surveyor requires a lot of work and much expertise in the various aspects of a water vessel.